Things To Do
in Veles

Veles is a charming city located in the heart of North Macedonia, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Nestled along the Vardar River, it boasts a mix of historical architecture and modern amenities. The city's strategic location makes it an important industrial and transportation hub.

Visitors can explore its vibrant markets, historic sites, and enjoy the warm hospitality of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Veles
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Veles City Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the Vardar River promenade and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the water.

evening
:

Visit the historic Old Bazaar for some shopping and experience traditional Macedonian music at a nearby café.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike up to the nearby Marko's Monastery for stunning views of Veles and its surroundings.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic in the nearby forested area or visit the local botanical garden.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional tavern and savor local wines, followed by a walk through the city center to see it illuminated at night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
🍺Local Beer$3
🏨Night in a Hotel$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes for outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Language barrier for non-Slavic speakers.
  • Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • "Zdravo" - Hello
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please
  • "Gde je WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Veles

Visit one of these nice places.

Marko's Monastery

A picturesque monastery set in the hills, ideal for capturing stunning views.

Vardar River Promenade

A scenic spot along the river, perfect for sunset photography.

Old Bazaar

Charming streets filled with historic buildings and vibrant market life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Veles

Veles offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional Macedonian dishes and vibrant food scene.

Veles Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tavče Gravče

A traditional Macedonian bean dish, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Ajvar

A savory red pepper spread, commonly enjoyed with grilled meats.

Sarma

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Veles Market

A bustling market where you can sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food.

Street Vendors

Various vendors sell grilled meats and pastries throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Veles experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are generally hot and dry, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common, and addressing people with respect is important.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Hospitality

It is customary to accept offers of food or drink when visiting someone's home.

Safety Guide

Safety

Veles is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets at night. It is also advisable to stay informed about local conditions and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Veles

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in most places, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot weather; perfect for enjoying local festivals and river activities.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, great for hiking.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snow; cozy up in local cafés and enjoy winter sports nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Veles at Night

Veles has a lively nightlife scene with various bars and clubs that cater to different tastes. Local taverns often feature live music, while modern bars provide a more contemporary atmosphere. Most venues are within walking distance in the city center, making it easy to explore the nightlife without needing transportation.

Hiking in Veles

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kozhuf Mountain Trail

A stunning trail offering panoramic views and diverse flora, suitable for various skill levels.

Vardar Canyon Trail

This scenic route follows the Vardar River, providing beautiful landscapes and opportunities for bird watching.

Airports

How to reach Veles by plane.

Skopje International Airport

Located about 60 km from Veles, it is the main international gateway to North Macedonia, offering flights to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Veles is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common. However, some residential areas may have less infrastructure, so it's best to stick to the main pathways.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Macedonian Ethnic Group

The majority ethnic group, contributing to the local culture and traditions.

Albanian Community

A significant minority group, enriching the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Veles, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with local clubs and community games regularly taking place.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Veles is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect the city with nearby towns, but they may not be frequent. Most attractions are within walking distance, so many visitors prefer to explore on foot.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Veles.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specifics.

Gluten-Free

Options may be limited, so communicating dietary needs clearly is essential.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Veles is accessible, with several clinics and a regional hospital providing services. Emergency services are available, but it is advisable to carry travel insurance and access private healthcare if possible for quicker service. Pharmacies are also readily available throughout the city.

Discover North Macedonia

Read more in our North Macedonia 2025 Travel Guide.

North Macedonia Travel Guide